Black Bear Discovery Hike
Trip Highlights
Description
**Tour led by Venture Outdoors** One of Seminole County’s most delightful natural lands, Black Bear Wilderness Area offers some of the best birding and wildlife watching in the region. True to its name it is a place to find bear scratches on trees, bear prints on the ground, and the Florida black bear itself. This trail is one of Florida’s most beautiful hikes and showcases Florida’s enchanting jungle-like floodplain forest. This is a loop trail and requires commitment to complete the entire loop, there are no shortcuts. The rugged terrain provides for a more challenging hike than usually encountered in Florida but rewards you with stunning views of the St. John’s river and many wildlife sightings.
Tour Info
Why take this tour?
The Black Bear Discovery Hike was featured on Florida on a Tankful hosted by Randy Rauch with Spectrum News 13. Check out the story yourself.
Included
- A professional, knowledgeable, medically trained, certified kayak guide
- A commitment to make the tour as exciting, challenging, informative, and full as you’d like, and as is possible in a day
Excluded
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- Sun protection (sunhat, sunglasses, sun screen)
- Drinking water
- Grautity for your guide
Things to know
Safety Considerations
Guides
Group Size and Age Restrictions
Weather in Central Florida
More Experiences
Wild Florida on the Dora Canal
Glide into a slower pace of life as you paddle through the wild beauty of the Dora Canal, where towering cypress trees stretch overhead and Spanish moss sways gently in the breeze. The air smells fresh and earthy, birdsong echoes through the canopy, and the glassy water reflects shades of green you don’t see anywhere else in Florida. You’ll feel the calm rhythm of your paddle, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders, and the quiet thrill of spotting herons, egrets, turtles, and maybe even a gator tucked along the shoreline. This is the kind of place where conversations soften, worries drift away, and time seems to stand still. As your guide shares stories of the canal’s history and points out hidden details you might otherwise miss, you’ll leave feeling relaxed, reconnected, and grateful for a rare moment to truly unplug and be present in nature.
Fly Out Paddle In Tour
Take your adventure to new heights with a seaplane flight followed by a peaceful guided paddle through some of Florida’s most scenic waterways. Experience one of the most unique adventures in Florida with our Fly Out Paddle In Tour. Your journey begins with an unforgettable seaplane flight above the Harris Chain of Lakes, where you will take in stunning aerial views of winding waterways, cypress forests, and shoreline wildlife. After landing, the adventure continues on the water as you paddle with our experienced guides through peaceful, scenic waterways at a relaxed pace. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and other wildlife while soaking in the quiet beauty that makes this area so special. This tour blends thrill and tranquility, pairing the excitement of flight with the calm and immersive experience of paddling in nature. It is the perfect way to see Lake County from two unforgettable perspectives and create memories you will not find anywhere else.
Premium Single Kayak Rental
Set off on a peaceful solo adventure with our Premium Single Kayak Rental, perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the Dora Canal and the Harris Chain of Lakes at your own pace. Our 11'6" sit-on-top kayaks are stable, easy to use, and designed for comfort, featuring supportive aluminum frame seating to keep you relaxed while you paddle. Whether it’s your first time kayaking or you’re an experienced paddler, these premium kayaks are ideal for a smooth and enjoyable ride on calm, scenic waters. This self-guided experience is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, connect with nature, or enjoy some quiet time on the water. As you explore, you’ll paddle beneath cypress trees and along peaceful waterways, with opportunities to spot birds, turtles, fish, and other local wildlife. When you arrive, our friendly team will review a route map with you and recommend the best paddle options based on your rental time and comfort level. We’ll also provide basic paddling instructions and a safety overview before you launch, so you feel confident and ready to go. No experience required. Just show up, hop in, and enjoy one of Central Florida’s most beautiful paddling destinations.
Premium Double Kayak Rental
Explore together with our Premium Double Kayak Rental, the perfect way for couples, friends, and families to share a relaxing adventure on the water. This two-person (tandem) kayak experience lets you paddle side by side through the scenic beauty of the Dora Canal in the Harris Chain of Lakes. Our double kayaks are stable, comfortable, and beginner-friendly, making them ideal for both first-time paddlers and experienced kayakers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature escape, a fun outdoor date, or a memorable way to explore Central Florida, this rental offers the perfect blend of connection and adventure. As you paddle, you’ll glide beneath cypress trees and along calm waterways, with opportunities to spot birds, turtles, fish, and other local wildlife. The Dora Canal’s old Florida charm creates a truly immersive setting that feels far removed from the busy tourist crowds. When you arrive, our friendly local team will review a route map with you and recommend the best paddle options based on your rental time and comfort level. We’ll also provide basic paddling instructions and a safety overview before you launch, so you feel confident and ready to enjoy your time on the water. No experience required — just grab your paddle and enjoy one of Central Florida’s most scenic shared adventures.
The Brunch Voyage
The Brunch Voyage is the perfect way to start your weekend with nature, paddling, and a hearty lakeside breakfast. Your self-guided journey begins on Lake Dora at Adventure Outdoor Paddle, where you’ll launch your kayak or paddle board and explore the stunning Dora Canal, known for its cypress trees, wildlife, and Old Florida charm. From there, you’ll continue across Lake Eustis to The Fish Camp, a local favorite for breakfast and brunch. As a special perk, all guests who arrive by kayak or paddle board receive 10% off their meal at The Fish Camp. After brunch, enjoy a leisurely paddle back through the canal to return to our launch point on Lake Dora. This 5-hour rental includes an extra hour of paddle time, giving you plenty of room to enjoy the sights and your meal without rushing.
Private Guided Dora Canal Kayak Tour
Indulge in a one-of-a-kind outdoor escape with a privately guided paddle through the breathtaking Dora Canal, renowned as “the most beautiful mile of waterway in the world.” This VIP experience is perfect for guests who want a more personal and relaxed way to experience the Dora Canal. With a private tour, your group enjoys the water at a relaxed and personalized pace without the structure of a larger group. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, spending quality time with family, or simply looking for a peaceful way to experience Florida’s natural beauty, this tour offers a truly memorable experience. As you paddle beneath towering cypress trees and through calm, shaded waterways, your local guide will share stories about the canal’s history, wildlife, and unique ecosystem. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, fish, and other native species that call this area home. Your guide will tailor the pace and experience to your group, making this tour ideal for beginners, casual paddlers, photographers, and nature lovers alike. This private experience is priced per group and includes up to six guests, making it a great option for couples, families, or small groups looking for a more intimate and personalized adventure. Step away from the crowds and experience the Dora Canal the way it was meant to be seen, quietly, slowly, and surrounded by the beauty of real Florida.